Publication Date

2-20-2024

Degree Awarded Date

December 13, 2024

DOI

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10633331

Abstract

Background and Review of Literature: This quality improvement (QI) intervention evaluated the effectiveness of a standardized handoff reference tool for patients transferring from the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) to the operating room (OR) in a large metropolitan level I trauma center. There was minimal data to assess the quality of this sequence of patient transfer as no systematic ICU-OR handoff content practices were currently employed at the hospital. This project aimed to help fill the practice-knowledge gap that could impact some of the most vulnerable patients during ICU-OR transfer. Methods: Pre- and post-implementation staff surveys, live observations, and chart reviews were utilized to evaluate duration, completeness, clinician knowledge, and attitudes. Handoff observation was used in a non-punitive manner with no reporting other than to gather data for this QI project. Implementation plan and procedure: The intervention focused on education of a novel reference tool developed for this project for all clinicians taking part in handoff, including anesthesia and surgical personnel as those assuming care of the patient, and SICU registered nurses (RNs) and ICU personnel as those who are transferring care. Implications/conclusion: The QI project demonstrated that the standardized reference tool can improve completeness, handoff duration, and clinician satisfaction, while also being cost-effective. Thus, the inclusion of this reference tool is expected to enhance safety, build clinician confidence, and improve effectiveness of ICU to OR handoff.

Language

English (en)

Document Type

Other

Advisor

Spencer, Julie DNP, RN, CDCES (Chair) Barnes Jewish College, Goldfarb School of Nursing

Associated Committee

Torres, Brian DNP, CRNA (Committee Member) Barnes Jewish College, Goldfarb School of Nursing

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